Wilbur-Ellis Nutrition, LLC, has acquired of the assets of Rangen, Inc., a privately held, 90-plus year-old aquaculture and general feed production company.
"We're excited to welcome another well-established business with a strong industry presence to Wilbur-Ellis Nutrition," said Andrew Loder, president of the nutrition division of Wilbur-Ellis. Wilbur-Ellis is an international marketer and distributor of agricultural products, animal nutrients, and specialty chemicals and ingredients.
"Rangen is a strategic fit for nutrition. It significantly expands our aquaculture business, immediately giving Wilbur-Ellis a nationwide platform from which to expand in one of the fastest-growing markets in the global feed industry," Loder said. "The acquisition also benefits the company's livestock, pet and companion animal offerings by expanding our branded and custom-formulated feed options."
The aquaculture business includes the production of high-quality feed for fish – including trout, salmon and shrimp – which helps to meet growing consumer demand for healthy foods that are high in protein.
Rangen employs about 80 full-time employees at its headquarters and plant operations. The acquisition includes two plants in Buhl, Idaho, which manufacture aquaculture and general feed products, as well as an aquaculture feed plant in Angleton, Texas.
Rangen employees will join Wilbur-Ellis, continuing in their roles at their current locations.
Rangen was founded in 1925, with its aquaculture division established in 1950.